Penis discharge of a fluid other than urine or semen from the urethral opening is not normal, and it is usually the sign of an infection. While most infections can be treated through standard medical care, early intervention is important in preventing complications or the risk of passing on the infection. In addition, attention to penis care and proper hygiene, as well as the practice of safe sex, are all important in reducing the chances of contracting a communicable disease.

Symptoms of penis discharge

Any type of fluid expelled from the penile opening that is not semen or urine is not normal and is referred to as discharge. This fluid can range in appearance and consistency from a clear, watery fluid to a yellowish or whitish, thick and/or chunky substance. In some cases, the discharge may appear greenish in color, and an unpleasant odor may be present.

It is important to note that the seminal fluid that is released during arousal (often referred to as "precum") or that leaks from the urethral opening following climax is not abnormal; it is simply the body’s natural solution for lubrication and should not be a cause for concern.

Discharge related to infection may be accompanied by other symptoms such as pain or burning on urination, frequency of urination, fever, sore throat, swollen glands, headache, rash in the groin area and itching.

What causes abnormal discharge from the penis?

Any type of discharge (from the penis or otherwise) is typically a sign of infection. In the case of the penis, this problem is usually related to a sexually transmitted infection such as gonnorhea, chlamydia, or herpes. Some non-sexually transmitted conditions, including thrush (yeast infection) and balanitis may also cause similar symptoms.

Men who experience any of these symptoms are urged to seek medical care. Ignoring the problem can lead to complications, and any sexual contact while symptoms are present can result in passing the infection to a partner. Men who are carrying a sexually transmitted infection can pass it on to a partner without the presence of symptoms, so all individuals who are active should be tested regularly.

Treatment for penis infection

Treatment for an infection depends on the exact cause of the condition, which can generally be determined by a swab test of the fluid. Yeast infection is typically treated with over-the-counter or prescription creams; communicable diseases generally require a round of antibiotics.

Men who are infected should abstain from sexual contact during the course of the treatment, and partners should be treated as well; otherwise, the risk of reinfection is high.

Preventing infection and boosting penis health

Not all penis infections can be prevented, and chances are that most men will run into occasional problems. However, with the right treatment, men can reduce the risk of contracting a communicable disease that can cause unpleasant and difficult-to-treat symptoms.

The first line of defense, of course, comes down to using barrier protection, especially for random sexual encounters. Men who are in a committed relationship should make it a priority to talk honestly and openly with their partners about any past issues and decide on the best approach to disease prevention and birth control.

In addition, boosting the natural defenses of the penis is essential in warding off diseases ranging from mild skin infections to more serious issues. Clean, well-hydrated skin is much more resilient and better able to resist infection. After a daily shower, applying a high-quality penis health formula(most health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil) that has moisturizing and nourishing properties can help maintain this important line of defense against infectious disease.